Know Before You Go
A Visitor’s Guide to National Park Reservations
A Visitor’s Guide to National Park Reservations
New Systems Address Overcrowding And Protect Parks
As record-setting numbers of people continue to find and explore our parks, some ― including Glacier, Rocky Mountain and Yosemite ― are working on solutions. Here’s what to know before you go.
People love national parks, and inspirational sites such as Arches, the Great Smoky Mountains and Yosemite have welcomed a steady increase in visitors over the years. At some of these especially popular parks, crowded conditions have led to problems and frustrations, including traffic jams, overflowing parking lots, packed and unsafe trails, and threats to wildlife and plants. Some people have even gotten turned away at entrance gates, creating negative and unpredictable experiences at the very places we turn to for solace, beauty and reflection.
Luckily, some of our most overwhelmed parks are exploring solutions, including reservation and timed-entry systems similar to what many museums, movie theaters and other venues have already put in place to ensure there is space for each guest. With a bit of advanced planning, visitors can have safer, less stressful experiences and see more of what makes these parks special.
Know Before You Go
Know Before You Go
Know Before You Go
Visiting Glacier National Park
Know Before You Go
Visiting Haleakalā National Park (Sunrise Reservations)
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Visiting Muir Woods National Monument
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Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park
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Visiting Shenandoah National Park (Old Rag Trail)
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Visiting Yosemite National Park
Know Before You Go
Visiting Zion National Park (Angel’s Landing Trail)